09 Raleigh Rush Hour - Opinions for new rider
 

Ive been commuting to work on my Trek for 4 months now and am constantly taking it in to have the derailler adjusted. Its been a good bike but I am tired of dealing with the chain jumping in traffic and causing me problems that could have severe consequences. I tried a Rush Hour today after taking the Trek in again to get adjusted (3rd time) and its a slick looking bike. Ive never had a road bike before and the geometry was certainly different. Anyone have any opinions on this bike as a commuter (15-20 miles daily) for a long time rider/first time road bike owner? Price at the shop was $600 on closeout as its an 09. Thanks guys!

For $200 less you can buy a 2010 Mercier Kilo TT Pro, which is a very similar bike. However, that bike would not be my choice for a practical commuter, as it lacks practical items like water bottle bosses. Instead, I'd look at something like a Kilo WT, which has braze-ons galore and room for large tires and fenders.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/.../kilott_wt.htm

I have an 09 Rush Hour. Personally I love mine. I have had to do some adjustments to get it the way i wanted it, but it's a very dependable ride. It's true that there aren't bottle cage mounts and the clearances are pretty tight, but to me it's a very responsive and quick bike. Personally i don't use full fenders for commuting, just a rear mud guard and I never really liked water bottle holders. The stock sugino messenger crankset feels great. I use my bike every day for all my errands and transportation even though i own a car, so a 15 to 20 mile commute will be fine. I would recommend replacing the stock saddle as well as the pedals for added comfort.

i really love this bike. this is my 1st fixed gear bike and there are couple of things i had to replace to get it to my liking and comfort. as mentioned above, it is very reliable. it comes with very good components as a stock bike.

this is how my bike looks:
http://www.sonnygphotography.com/wp-...ike-update.jpg

right now im running a single bottle cage behind the saddle with a minoura single bottle mount. its very sleak looking and tucks under the seat very well. my typical riding mileage is about 25-30 miles each time.

Thanks for the insight guys, good to hear its a solid option. Im hopin this bike will itch that faster, faster urge i get...i have a backpack/hydration bladder and after dropping 300ish on the Trek i think thatll be a cruiser/utility option. Simplicity and sturdiness is my focus. I like the Mercier but unfortunately my options are limited here. Did see this on CL though...can anyone fill me in on how this bike stacks up?

http://york.craigslist.org/bik/1923647553.html

Either way imma bout a week or two out from buying. My BMX is good for putzin around in town...not heading to the next one over. Cmon big money no wammies next paycheck!